Law, Liturgy, and Intent: Isaac of Corbeil’s Liturgical Innovation in Thirteenth-Century France

Abstract: From the late twelfth century onward, the Church shows increasing concern for the religious welfare of all Christians. This development within Church policy is reflected in the educational reforms of the Fourth Lateran Council (1215) and in the flourishing of works written for the sake of “pastoral care.” This study presents one example of a Jewish scholar who wished to influence the religiosity of the entire community by enacting a liturgical innovation. Isaac of Corbeil advocated the daily recitation of an abbreviated list of commandments to create awareness of the religious commandments that obligated all Jews. After introducing Isaac of Corbeil’s initiative, this essay explains its religious significance and the centrality of “intent” in his thought, and traces sources that may have influenced his thinking. An appendix regarding the textual evidence is included.